Ballarat annual Heritage Weekend takes place during Mother's Day weekend. This year it will be held from 10 to 11 May.
Each year a theme is showcased, this year's is "Who Made Ballarat"?

Image from Ballarat Heritage Weekend Facebook page
Highlights of this festival include the free double decker bus rides, tours of the Mechanics' Institute, the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Old Colonists Hall, Her Majesty's Theatre, Ballarat Synagogue, Darnell Collection fashion shows,
Ballarat Apron Festival, the
Doctor Blake exhibition and markets. To find out more about the activities click
here for the official program.
Most of the activities are free or cost a gold coin. Some events including the High Teas at Craig's Royal Hotel and Lydiard Wine Bar, Ballarat Old Colonists' Club Heritage Dinner, tours from Eerie Tours Ballarat and visiting the Ballarat Observatory will acquire an extra cost.

Image from Ballarat Heritage Weekend Facebook page
You can enjoy a ride on Ballarat's own 1889 vintage steam locomotive Y112 and a 1940s K class run by
SteamRail Victoria. This activity will incur an additional charge. Further information about the prices can be located at their
Facebook page.
If you would like to experience the real history of Ballarat, come along to the annual Heritage Weekend on 10 and 11 May.